I've gone through three surgeries for cubital tunnel now. Two decompression with medial epicondylectomy and last week a transposition surgery with decompression (I think subcutaneous.. buried the nerve under fat).

I've had claw fingers throughout all these surgeries but find it hasn't improved, slowly increasing.

Since my latest surgery I've noticed more pain n these fingers, and bending a bit more.

My fingers don't feel stiff but I am unable to straighten them with my own strength. In the morning when I wake up I noticed they are clawed more.

I've also gone for hand therapy but it hasn't made a difference but I keep doing it at home to see if it will help. Also had a velcro finger buddy thing, hasn't helped.

I did notice on the day of surgery and earlier this week the surgeon was pressing, massaging, maninpulating my forearm (palm side) to see if the fingers would straighten, but they wouldn't. I'm guessing he was checking muscles, tendons.

I know I may have nerve damage and never have complete function of these fingers but I was wondering if there are any procedures to help the fingers??


I find I'm somewhat clumsy because those two fingers are not functioning, hard to grip or hold things.

Thanks for your help!

Hi Chey, welcome to the site. Sorry about your clawing, that's certainly a sign that you have severe cubital tunnel syndrome.

I have similar problems of weakness but not quite as bad. I find myself dropping things alot more, so I have to be careful when carrying glass, etc.

My doctor told me normal hand strengthening exercises will help, such as those rubber squeeze balls or hand springs. There is also a small exercise device that guitarists use that you might find helpful.

Of course the best thing is for your ulnar nerve to heal. Hopefully the damage to your nerve is not permanent. Good luck!

Thanks timm

I'll be going to physiotherapy soon so hopefully they can show me some exercises.